‘Keep learning’ – Dan Ashworth dealt first major snub since leaving Newcastle United as £70m star speaks out

Dan Ashworth has already secured two signings as Manchester United sporting director – but met fierce resistance from Everton for Jarrad Branthwaite
Jarrad Branthwaite has outlined the importance of first-team football after Everton snubbed two bids from Manchester United.

Despite failing to make England’s Euro 2024 squad, the Toffees slapped a £70million price tag on the centre-back. Newcastle United were also linked with Branthwaite, who rose through the ranks at Carlisle, earlier this year.

Dan Ashworth completed his Old Trafford switch on July 1 and immediately set his stall on the 22-year-old. However, the Toffees held firm knowing they have him tied down until 2027.

Man United switched their attention to Lille wonderkid Leny Yoro, while Joshua Zirkzee has also arrived from Bologna. Branthwaite is already looking forward to regular minutes at Goodison Park after dealing Ashworth his first snub as Red Devils chief.

“I think for me it’s just about taking what I learned from last season and putting it all together,” he told the club website. “Last season, playing all the games I did helped me put in performances and get the experience I needed. I’m going to take that into this season and keep learning.

When you’ve got a good defensive record, it gives you confidence going into the new season. It’s not just the defenders who contribute to that, it’s the whole team. And it’s the way the manager has us set up to give us the best possible chance to win games, and to pick up as many points as we can.